Introduction
Unlock the delightful flavors of a creamy lemon chicken orzo dish that’s not only satisfying but also easy to prepare. This recipe combines tender chicken, seasoned to perfection, with the comforting texture of orzo pasta, all enveloped in a rich cream sauce with a zesty lemon finish. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups orzo pasta
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
2 cups fresh spinach
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Season the Chicken
Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated for optimal flavor.
Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook the chicken until it is browned and cooked through, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Cook the onion until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Toast the Orzo
Add the orzo to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Cook the orzo while stirring frequently for about 2 minutes, allowing it to toast slightly and absorb the flavors.
Add Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and allow it to simmer. Continue to simmer until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, which will take approximately 10 minutes.
Incorporate Cream and Cheese
Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Mix the ingredients until they are well combined and the sauce becomes creamy.
Add Spinach and Chicken
Return the cooked chicken and fresh spinach to the skillet. Stir everything together until the spinach is wilted and all the ingredients are heated through.
Garnish and Serve
Before serving, garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Notes
Chicken Preparation
Ensure the chicken is cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Orzo Cooking
Keep an eye on the orzo while it cooks, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables according to preference, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, for added nutrients and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Seasoning the Chicken
Properly season the chicken with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to enhance the flavor. Ensure that the seasoning is evenly distributed over all pieces for optimal taste.
Searing the Chicken
Cook the chicken in a hot skillet with olive oil until it is browned and cooked through. This technique locks in moisture and develops a rich flavor.
Sautéing Aromatics
Sauté the onion and minced garlic in the same skillet to build a flavorful base. Cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, which typically takes a few minutes.
Toasting Orzo
Toast the orzo in the skillet before adding the liquid. This process adds a nutty depth of flavor to the pasta, enhancing its overall taste when cooked.
Simmering
Simmer the orzo in chicken broth until it is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. This method allows the orzo to absorb the broth’s rich flavors.
Creating a Creamy Sauce
Incorporate heavy cream and grated Parmesan into the mixture. Stir until well combined to create a creamy sauce that envelops the orzo and chicken.
Wilting Spinach
Add fresh spinach toward the end of cooking to retain its vibrant color and nutrients. Stir until the spinach is just wilted for the best texture.
Garnishing
Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley just before serving. This adds a burst of color and freshness to the finished meal.
FAQ
Can I use different types of pasta instead of orzo?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe, but cooking times may vary.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance. Reheat gently, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative, though it may alter the richness of the dish.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
Consider using whole wheat orzo, reducing the amount of cheese, and adding more vegetables for a healthier version.
What herbs can I use instead of parsley for garnish?
You can use fresh basil, cilantro, or chives as alternatives to parsley for a different flavor profile.
Conclusion
This creamy orzo dish with chicken and spinach is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining tender chicken with the richness of a creamy sauce and the freshness of lemon. It makes for a comforting meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this recipe showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create a deliciously complex dish.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Orzo Skillet
Swap out the chicken for an array of seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes for a fresh and vibrant vegetarian option.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Orzo
Substitute chicken with shrimp, adding a burst of flavor with lemon and garlic, creating a seafood variation that is equally creamy and satisfying.
Pesto Chicken Orzo
Incorporate basil pesto instead of the lemon and Parmesan for a herby twist, enhancing the dish with a vibrant green color and rich flavor profile.
Orzo with Sausage and Spinach
Use Italian sausage for a robust flavor and mix in additional vegetables like mushrooms or kale to add depth to your orzo creation.
Creamy Orzo with Broccoli and Cheddar
Add steamed broccoli and substitute heavy cream with a mix of cream cheese and cheddar for a cheesy and comforting variant that kids will love.
